Hey folks, I've recently moved to sydney and looking at buying new kite prob a north rebel. I would describe myself as beginner/intermediate weighing 83kg. Just wondering what size kite I would get the most use out of here. Thanks in advance

Hi man,

I am glad you have asked this question, because 8 months ago, when I got my Rally I had the same question. I've been told anything between 10 and 12 meters like Rally 2011 from Slingshot. However, 6 out of 10 times on the beach I would be really underpowered, especially on the Northern Beaches.

That's why only a couple of days ago I got a brand new 2012 Griffin Argo 17 meters which is absolutely amazing. Wind range 8 knots to about 18-20 knots. Massive depower on them, totally safe. Super fast (just as fast as my ten). Very versatile. Turns super fast and I already had the time of my life with it in 12 knots last week at the Basin.

You can actually call this guy and ask him for a demo! 0417733383 Chris. He is awesome!

Personally I would say that 17m is too much for someone still in the early stages of progression, it may well be very user friendly with depower etc but thats still a lot of sail to deal with launching, landing, water relaunching etc.

In light winds technique is more important, my largest kite is a 13m and im about 10kilos heavier than you but granted I dont really go out unless its 15 knots.

If your really concerned about light wind performance just buy a board designed for it - it will have a greater impact than a few metres of cloth.....

Mikedobee said...

Griffin Argo 17 meters
Super fast (just as fast as my ten).

It's one thing to be happy with your new kite, but no way that a 2012 17m will ever fly "as fast as" a 2011 10m kite. That's somewhat misleading to a relative novice looking for kite advice... Unintentional, I'm sure, but in the interest of giving a fellow Seabreezer good advice...

Big kites turn a LOT slower than small kites. Big kites in light wind can be pretty boring...

My 2c. Get a 12m. Rebel is a good choice.

Not only that I am happy with my new kite, but it really turns very fast and it's far from boring. I am also a novice with only 8 months into the sport. However, I did try a couple of kites (RPM 2011, 2012), Cabrina Switchblade, Rev II 2009, BWS 2011, Griffin, Rally 2011, 2012 and I can easily say that this kite is NOT your regular big light wind kite.

Have you tried it??? Please have a try at it and I promise you will be amazed.

Cheers,
Mike

DutchRooster said...

Mikedobee said...

Griffin Argo 17 meters
Super fast (just as fast as my ten).

It's one thing to be happy with your new kite, but no way that a 2012 17m will ever fly "as fast as" a 2011 10m kite. That's somewhat misleading to a relative novice looking for kite advice... Unintentional, I'm sure, but in the interest of giving a fellow Seabreezer good advice...

Big kites turn a LOT slower than small kites. Big kites in light wind can be pretty boring...

My 2c. Get a 12m. Rebel is a good choice.